Pipelines Act 2005

In hearing submissions, a panel—

must act according to equity and good conscience without regard to technicalities or legal forms; and

is bound by the rules of natural justice; and

is not required to conduct the hearing in a formal manner; and

is not bound by the rules or practice as to evidence but may inform itself on any matter—

in any way it thinks fit; and

without notice to any person who has made a submission.

A panel may require the applicant or any other person or body to produce any documents relating to any matter being considered by the panel under this Act that it reasonably requires.

A panel may prohibit or regulate cross-examination in any hearing.

A panel may hear evidence and submissions from any person whom this Act requires it to hear.

Submissions and evidence may be given to a panel orally or in writing or partly orally and partly in writing.